Strictly Come Dancing fans say new hosts are "growing" on them: "Give them time!"

Strictly Come Dancing fans have been sharing their verdicts on the new hosting trio ahead of the show's halfway point – and it's a positive one!

Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe and Johannes Radebe made their debut on the hit BBC dancing show back in September following the departure of Strictly hosting legends Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman.

Since then, however, the trio have received mixed feedback from viewers and former professionals, with many questioning whether the show needs three presenters.

But during tonight’s Halloween special, which marks one week off the show’s halfway point, some fans appear to have had a change of heart.

Want to see this content?

This page contains content provided by Twitter. We ask for your permission before anything is loaded, as Twitter may use cookies and other technologies. To view this content, choose 'Accept and continue' to allow Twitter and its required purposes.

One wrote on Twitter (formerly X): “I think Emma, Jojo and Josh are growing into their roles - give them time! We’re loving them."

Another added: “I have to be honest Josh, Emma, & Johannes are growing on me!"

Referencing a joke in which Emma and Johannes wore pumpkin outfits, another viewer said: "I liked that skit from the three hosts. Made me chuckle. Leave Joshy alone. I like him with Emma and Johannes."

However, some still had doubts, with one writing: "Emma and Jojo have settled in now as presenters which leaves Josh looking even more like a spare part."

Add Radio Times as a Preferred Source on Google Keep up to date on what’s worth watching with your favourite entertainment news from Radio Times – see more of our exclusive news and interviews featured prominently in Top Stories when using Google.

Widdicombe, Willis and Radebe were confirmed as the new presenters of the main show back in May 2025, after Tess Daly and Claudia announced they would be stepping down at the end of the year.

Willis said in a statement at the time that she’s a "huge fan" of the series, adding: "To be stepping into the Strictly ballroom is something I can't quite comprehend."

Widdicombe added that he was "giddy with excitement, honoured and a little overawed to be given the chance to step into the biggest shoes in television".

Radebe added: "To be returning to Strictly Come Dancing in this new role is beyond anything I ever imagined."

Strictly Come Dancing continues on Sunday 1 November at 7:10pm on BBC One and iPlayer.

Add Strictly Come Dancing to your watchlist on the Radio Times: What to Watch app – download now for daily TV recommendations, features and more.

Check out more of our Entertainment coverage or visit our TV Guideand Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.

Authors

Molly Moss is a Trends Writer for Radio Times, covering the latest trends across TV, film and more. She has an MA in Newspaper Journalism and has previously written for publications including The Guardian, The Times and The Sun Online.